UMUC Library Practices Regarding the Use of Reference Services

Conduct

Asking librarians to answer questions from tests, quizzes, or exams is a violation of UMUC's Policy on Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism.

We expect that patrons using our reference services will behave appropriately as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct. We reserve the right to end the transaction if you do not comply.

Privacy

UMUC respects patron privacy and confidentiality and observes applicable laws, policies, and professional codes of conduct. Additionally, as part of routine reference service in a networked environment, the UMUC Library collects and retains some patron information for quality control and security purposes.

If you are using our chat service, you have the option of entering a valid e-mail address at chat login. If you choose to provide your e-mail address, you will receive a complete transcript of your session with the librarian, including links to Web sites visited. In addition, the librarian can send a follow-up message to you if more information is found after your session has ended.

You may be asked to complete a survey to assess the quality of service you experience. All responses will be kept confidential.

Use of all UMUC Library online resources and services, including but not limited to the library research databases, UMUC Library OneSearch, the library catalog, search by subject and subject/course resources guides, DocumentExpress, and Ask A Librarian functions, is subject to the provisions of use detailed in UMUC Policy 270.00 – Acceptable Use Policy.

Although the UMUC Library makes every effort to protect the privacy of user circulation records (including books and Internet searches), UMUC may be obligated to release such information to law enforcement agents in response to a search warrant or subpoena, such as those issued in accordance with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, 50 U.S.C. 1861, as amended by the USA PATRIOT Act (Public Law 107-56). That law prohibits UMUC staff from informing you that it received such a request.